Doha: A Qatar farm has started harvesting saffron for the first time in the country and is eyeing 25 percent local market share.
Saffron Qatar, located in Um Lushoosh, North of Qatar, marked the opening of the harvest season today and was attended by officials from Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Qatar Chamber and Hassad Food.
“We are very happy to inaugurate the first farm in Qatar that produces saffron, as these plants are usually found in Iran, Morocco, Afghanistan, Spain and other countries. Today we celebrate the inauguration of the farm,” Jaber Al Mansouri, the owner of the farm, said.
The farm uses latest technologies for cultivating saffron like hydroponic - soilless – and also using soil in special containers.
“We want to expand the project to increase the produce to supply to the local market as a Qatari product. We expect to meet 25% of Qatar market needs,” Al Mansouri added.